CM Naidu Unanimously Passes Resolution to Set Up High Court Bench at Kurnool

In a significant development, Andhra Pradesh Assembly unanimously passed a resolution on Thursday, urging the Centre to set up a High Court bench at Kurnool. The resolution was tabled by Minister for Law N. M.D. Farooq, who assured that the bench will be set up as early as possible.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu stated that the people of Kurnool have long been demanding a High Court bench, and his government is committed to the development of the region. He alleged that the previous government of the YSR Congress Party neglected the Rayalaseema region.

The resolution was passed a day after the state Cabinet decided to set up a permanent Bench of the High Court in Kurnool. The decision comes amidst protests by lawyers in Kurnool against the proposed shifting of the two legal bodies, Andhra Pradesh State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC) and Lok Ayukta, from Amaravati.

In a letter to the registrar general of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, state law secretary pointed out that there are similar arrangements in other states where high courts have benches in different locations. The CM also assured the Assembly that APSHRC and Lok Ayukta will continue to function from Kurnool, amid protests by advocates.

The opposition had recently launched a boycott of court activities from November 19, protesting the proposed relocation of institutions like Lokayukta and APSHRC to Amaravati. The issue dates back to the previous government's proposal to make Kurnool the judicial capital under its three-state capital formula.

MLAs from Kurnool district and other parts of Rayalaseema hailed the passing of the resolution, saying it would meet the long-pending demand of the people of the region. CM Naidu announced that the state government is ready to set up the High Court bench at Kurnool as promised to the people.

The resolution will be sent to the Centre for its consent, and the Chief Minister has assured that the bench will be set up soon, ensuring justice and development for the people of Kurnool.